Cherry Cheese Empanada Puffs (Print Version)

Crisp pastry filled with cream cheese and cherries—fusion of creamy, fruity, and crisp textures everyone will enjoy.

# Components:

→ Pastry Dough

01 - 1 package (approximately 14 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed

→ Cream Cheese Filling

02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cherry Filling

05 - 3/4 cup cherry pie filling

→ Topping

06 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
07 - 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
03 - Lightly flour a clean surface. Gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets. Using a round cutter or knife, cut out 12 circles, each approximately 4 inches in diameter.
04 - Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry circle. Spoon 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese mixture.
05 - Carefully fold each pastry circle in half, enclosing the filling. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp the edges with the tines of a fork.
06 - Transfer the sealed empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg wash. If desired, sprinkle generously with coarse sugar.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the empanadas are puffed and have a beautiful golden-brown crust.
08 - Allow the empanada puffs to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. They are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses convenient store bought puff pastry for foolproof results
  • Perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet cherries
  • Impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight dessert
  • Versatile recipe that works with many fruit variations
02 -
  • These empanadas are best enjoyed within 24 hours of baking when the pastry is at its crispest
  • Each empanada contains approximately 220 calories making them a reasonable dessert option
  • The recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings
  • The filling combination works with nearly any fruit preserve or pie filling
03 -
  • For the flakiest results, ensure your puff pastry stays cold until the moment it goes into the oven. If it becomes too warm while you're working, pop it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before continuing.
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